GIVE US BARABBAS!

As a child, I felt a strong sense of confusion and unease whenever I watched the story of Jesus and Barabbas in movies, particularly as told in Luke 23. I struggled to understand why the people would choose to release Barabbas, a known criminal, over Jesus, who had done nothing but good. This choice has lingered with me, as I realised it represents a deeper, ongoing struggle.

In those days, it was customary for Pilate to release one Jewish prisoner during their festivals. When Jesus was brought before Pilate, he found no fault in Him. However, the crowd demanded Jesus’ crucifixion, asking for the freedom of Barabbas instead. But who was this Barabbas?

Barabbas was a man imprisoned for rebellion and violence. He was a symbol of insurrection and defiance. And yet, the people chose him over Jesus, the healer, the miracle worker, the one who spoke truth and brought hope. In essence, they chose rebellion and sin over righteousness and salvation.

Reflecting on this, I began to wonder: how often do we make the same choice? How often do we, in our daily lives, choose “Barabbas” over “Jesus”? We might not make this choice in a literal sense, but we often prioritize things that harm us spiritually over those that bring us closer to God.

What Choices Are We Making?

Think about your own life. Are there activities, habits, or even thoughts that you choose over what is godly and righteous? Perhaps it’s the time you spend on entertainment that distracts you from spiritual growth, or it’s certain behaviours that, while tempting, pull you away from God’s word.

In Romans 8:6, it is written, “To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.” We are reminded here that our choices shape our spiritual lives, guiding us either toward life in the Spirit or away from it.

Paul’s advice in Philippians 4:8 provides a guide for us: “Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” This is a reminder to align our thoughts and actions with what is good and godly.

Choosing Righteousness over Rebellion

We live in a world where the tension between our flesh and spirit is constant. We are always tempted to “choose Barabbas,” to give in to actions or desires that can ultimately lead us away from God. But the choice to follow Jesus is one that requires intentionality, prayer, and a supportive community.

It helps to ask ourselves reflective questions: In what areas of our lives might we be choosing Barabbas? Are we unknowingly prioritizing things that draw us away from a Christ-centred life?

Abide!

As Jesus says in John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” By staying connected to Jesus, we gain the strength to resist the pull of the flesh and choose a life that is pleasing to God.

Practical steps like prayer, reading the Bible, and surrounding ourselves with fellow believers can make a profound difference. Consider making it a habit to set aside time each day for spiritual growth. Join a Bible study group, or simply find a quiet moment to reflect on God’s word.

Conclusion

The call to “give us Barabbas” echoes throughout history and into our own lives. It is a reminder that we must consciously choose Jesus, not just once, but every day. By abiding in Him, we can resist the noise of the world and find peace in a life devoted to God.

In these ways, you’re on a good path to not responding to the flesh that keeps saying, “Give us Barabbas!”

May the Lord mend our nets!